High street herb and tea shop

Local shoppers, cooks, tea drinkers and people interested in traditional and natural products, plus tourists in busy areas.

Mark-up on loose herbs and teas sold by weight, plus higher-margin items such as blends, gifts, tins and accessories.

• Customer service and friendly advice
• Stock buying and cash management
• Product knowledge
• Basic shop display

• Commercial lease terms, business rates and deposits, so check the full monthly cost before signing
• Food business registration with your local council and food hygiene rules for loose products
• Food labelling and allergen information, even for items weighed out in the shop
• Avoid health claims about herbs, as there are strict rules on herbal remedies (check with the MHRA and Trading Standards)
• Public liability and stock insurance, plus employer's liability if you hire staff
• Quiet periods early on, so keep some cash in reserve

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on your premises, stock and fit-out. These are estimates. Check the full monthly cost of lease terms, business rates and deposits before signing anything.

Monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on your location, range and opening hours. These are estimates only. There may be quiet periods early on, so keep some cash in reserve.

Check food business registration with your local council, food hygiene rules for loose products, and labelling and allergen information. Avoid health claims about herbs, as strict rules apply to herbal remedies. Check with the MHRA and Trading Standards.